Tough job in the city is also hard to get

What if a prospective employer asked you to run 11/2 miles, and then drag a 31-pound dummy an hour after you completed a challenging written exam?

Could you pass a polygraph test? How about a psychological exam? Do you have good credit?

It's not only tough to be an Anaheim police officer – it's one of the toughest jobs to get. It requires the highest moral character, mental and physical toughness, the ability to communicate with all types of people, street- and book-smarts and lots of discipline.

“We take the selection of new police officers very seriously,” said interim police Chief Raul Quezada. “We have developed over the years a rigorous and comprehensive process to ensure we hire the best of the best.”

Sgt. James Kazakos says integrity is the first attribute he looks for in recruits.

“They have to be a good person, first and foremost. If they don't respect me in an interview – whether through manners, attentiveness, and even how they keep themselves – how can I expect them to respect someone not personally responsible for their career ambitions?” he asks.

For the first time since the economy crashed, the department is hiring. There are 13 police officer jobs open, with more than 200 applicants.

Recruits must pass a challenging written exam, then – on the same day – complete activities that include a 1.5-mile run, 100-yard obstacle course and 400-yard sprint. A little more than half make it. Then there's an oral exam, when recruits face a panel of police executives. Again, only about half pass.

The remaining recruits fill out a 27-page application, followed by a comprehensive background check and polygraph. Pass the polygraph, and you're likely to get a conditional job offer.

But you're still not ready to patrol the streets. You must pass psychological and medical tests and a one-on-one interview with Quezada. Make it through and you'll end up at the Police Academy.

Then – and only then – are you deemed fit for the honor of serving and protecting the city of Anaheim.

– Bill Rams is a former Orange County Register reporter who owns a boutique communications company. The Anaheim Police Department is a client. Email Rams at brams@cornerstonecomms.com.

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